Chez Ali
Marrakech, Central Morocco, 40000
Established in 1980, the dinner show at Chez Ali restaurant is a Marrakech institution. Dine on Moroccan signature dishes as musicians and dancers perform folk songs and dances from around the country. Then transfer to the arena for a traditional show that includes a cavalry charge and horseback riders, as well as belly dancers, acrobats, fireworks, and more.
The Basics
Chez Ali offers a number of set dinner menus, including a vegetarian option, but all are firmly centered on Moroccan traditions—expect local favorites such as couscous, tagine stew, and harira soup. Alcoholic drinks are available but cost extra, while premium packages include VIP seating with a better view of the action.
The restaurant and arena are both spacious, but it’s still worth booking ahead. As Chez Ali is some way out of town and the show ends late, many travelers will want to book a tour that includes door-to-door round-trip transfers.
Things to Know Before You Go
Chez Ali is a good choice for fans of cultural performances.
Kids under 4 get in free and kids aged 5–10 pay half price, but many families might find the show too late for younger children.
Alcoholic drinks are expensive by Western standards. Check the price before you order.
Temperatures around Marrakech can drop dramatically at night. Bring a layer.
Due to steps, neither the restaurant nor the arena is accessible to travelers who rely on wheelchairs.
How to Get There
Chez Ali restaurant is located about 9 miles (14 kilometers) north of downtown Marrakech, not far from La Palmeraie (Palm Grove). Public transport is not a practical option in the evenings. Rather than brave Morocco’s challenging traffic, most travelers opt for a tour that includes transfers.
When to Get There
Chez Ali opens for dinner only, which starts later than most Americans would expect. The Fantasia show happens after dinner, and travelers will be lucky to make it back to base before midnight. Look for another dinner option if you have an early start the next day.
The Moroccan “Fantasia”
The tableside performances are fascinating, but the star of the show at Chez Ali is a traditional “Fantasia” performance, also known as a tbourida. Costumed riders reenact a traditional cavalry charge, peaking with a synchronized roar of guns as they fire old-fashioned muskets into the air. (Don’t worry: There are no bullets.)
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